Personalized Bank Teller Machine

ABSTRACT

A system and method is provided for an ATM having a display, a logic server coupled to the display, and a memory coupled to the logic server. The logic server dynamically controls the functions available to the users including messages and coupons. A host contains a profile of a user. The memory, which is accessible to the logic server, may contain a profile of at least one user. A user card may contain a profile of the user. In operation, the ATM detects the a user&#39;s card and requests the profile of the user whose card was detected from a host. The ATM then receives the user&#39;s profile and stores the user&#39;s profile in the ATM. The system and method also provides a cardless ATM in which a user logs on without a card. Additionally, system and method also provides ATM services via a personal device.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 10/266,838, filed on Oct. 7, 2002 and entitled “Web EnabledBank Teller Machine,” which claims priority to U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 60/327,517, filed on Oct. 5, 2001, and the entirety ofboth of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to automated banking machinesand more particularly relates to an automated banking machine that isdynamically updated from a host system.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Automated banking machines are well known. A common type of automatedbanking machine used by consumers is an Automated Teller Machine(hereinafter “ATM”). ATMs enable customers to carry out a variety ofbanking transactions by interacting with the machine rather than a humanteller. Examples of banking transactions that are commonly carried outusing ATMs include withdrawals, deposits, transfer of funds betweenaccounts, payment of bills, and account balance inquiries. The types oftransactions that a customer may carry out at a particular ATM aredetermined by hardware and software configuration of that particular ATMas well as the hardware and software configuration of the institution towhich the particular ATM is connected. Other types of automated bankingmachines may allow customers to charge against accounts, or print ordispense items of value such as statements, coupons, tickets, wageringslips, vouchers, checks, food stamps, money orders, scrip or travelerschecks.

The architecture of prior art ATMs renders these machines extremelyinflexible. Current ATM architecture is based on traditionalhierarchical software and a closed system. Most significantly, thefunctionality offer through an ATM is fixed at the time the ATM isphysically installed or physically visited for purposes of upgrading themachine. The software used for the operation of the ATM is typicallycontained in firmware installed in the machine, which is fixed anddifficult to upgrade. Furthermore, when in operation, the ATM actsprimarily as a “dumb” terminal to the remote host (i.e., the financialinstitution). Little if any logic related to a customer's session withthe ATM is contained within the ATM, but is rather stored and executedat the host site. This traditional approach to ATM design and operationresults in long development time, increased time to market, inflexibleand expensive upgrades, inflexible user functionality, inflexible userinterfaces and inordinate dependency on hardware and softwaredevelopers.

Prior art ATMs are typically connected to proprietary communicationsnetworks in order to allow customers to use ATMs provided by those otherthan its own financial institution. These networks interconnect the ATMsoperated by financial institutions and other entities. Some examples ofthese networks include the NYCE™ and STAR™ systems. The interconnectioncapability of these networks enables a user to access his accounts athis own financial institution while using a banking machine operated bydifferent institution. This interconnection capability is available solong as the foreign institution's banking machine is connected to anetwork (e.g., NYCE™ to which the user's home financial institution isalso connected. When using such a “foreign” ATM, the user is limited tothe transaction options provided by the foreign institution and theoptions available at the specific ATM being used.

A customer may encounter difficulties when using a foreign institution'sATM. Such difficulties may occur because the user is not familiar withthe type of machine operated by the institution. Customer confusion mayresult because the customer does not know which buttons or otherphysical mechanisms are required to be actuated to accomplish thedesired transactions. Furthermore, the transaction flow (e.g., theseries of menu options) presented to a customer at a foreigninstitution's machine may be significantly different from the machineswith which the customer is familiar at the user's institution. This is aproblem particularly when the user is from another country and is notfamiliar with the type of banking machine or the language of theinterface provided by the (truly) “foreign” institution. Likewise, thedocuments, that are generated by the ATM printer, are generally limitedto a limited group of defined formats in a single language (e.g.,English). Further, the user may be presented with options that areinappropriate for the user's accounts.

A foreign institution's ATMs may also provide more, less, or a differenttype of transaction than the user is familiar with at their homeinstitutions ATMs. For example, the ATMs at the user's home institutionmay enable the transfer of funds between the user's accounts. Thisparticular transaction enables the user to maintain funds in higherinterest bearing accounts until they are needed. If the foreigninstitution does not provide this capability, the user will be unable toperform this familiar (and sometimes necessary) function when operatingthe foreign ATM machine. The inability of a user at a foreign machine toconduct the transactions to which they are accustomed may presentproblems (e.g., transferring funds into a checking account prior to ascheduled automatic withdrawal.

A foreign institution's ATM also lacks the ability to market directly tothe user. For example, the foreign institution's ATM may providefunctions, services or products which are not available at the user'shome institution.

The need to use an ATM card to access an ATM is a further disadvantageof a “dumb terminal” type ATM because it limits the ability to giveusers access on a temporary basis or to tailor the access to particularfunctions based on the user. Additionally, card-less access to somedisplay only functions of the ATM is not currently available on personaldevices such as cell phones, PDA's, etc.

Communication over wide area networks enables messages to becommunicated between distant locations. The best known wide area networkis the Internet, which can be used to provide communication betweencomputers throughout the world. In the past, the Internet has not beenwidely used for financial transaction messages, as it is not inherentlya secure system. Messages intended for receipt at a particular computeraddress may be intercepted at other addresses without detection. Becausethe messages may be intercepted at locations that are distant in theworld from the intended recipient, there is potential for theft andfraud.

Approaches are being developed for more secure transmission of messageson the Internet. Encryption techniques are also being applied toInternet messages. However, the openness of the Internet has limited itsusefulness for purposes of financial messages, particularly financialmessages associated with the operation of automated banking machines.

Messages in wide area networks may be communicated using theTransmission Control Protocol/Internet protocol (“TCP/IP”). U.S. Pat.No. 5,706,422 illustrates an example of a system in which financialinformation stored in databases is accessed through a private wide areanetwork using TCP/IP messages. The messages transmitted in suchnetworks, which use TCP/IP, may include “documents” (also called“pages”). Such documents are produced in Hypertext Markup Language(“HTML”) which is a reference to a type of programming language used toproduce documents with commands or “tags” therein. The tags are codes,which define features and/or operations of the document such as fonts,layout, imbedded graphics, and hypertext links. HTML documents areprocessed or read through use of a computer program referred to as a“browser.” The tags tell the browser how to process and control what isseen on a screen and/or is heard on speakers connected to the computerrunning the browser when the document is processed. HTML documents maybe transmitted over a network through the Hypertext Transfer Protocol(“HTTP”). The term “Hypertext” is a reference to the ability to embedlinks into the text of a document that allow communication to otherdocuments, which can be accessed in the network.

As shown in FIG. 1, an ATM 2 communicates with a host processor 6 acrossa network 4. The host processor 6 is operated by the institutionresponsible for the operation of the ATM 2, typically a financialinstitution (i.e., a bank). Although not shown, multiple ATMs can beconnected to the host 6 through the network 4. Furthermore, multiplehosts can be connected to the network 4 to service the multiple ATMs.ATM 2 is capable of performing self-testing and notifying the host 6when a problem is detected, e.g., no cash, no receipt, or no deposits.In response to such a notification from the ATM 2, the host 6 modifiesits control of the ATM's display so that a user will be aware of anexisting problem or limited service available at the malfunctioning ATM2.

To use the system shown in FIG. 1, a user first presents a bank card tothe card reader that is part of the ATM machine 2. The card typicallyhas a magnetic strip containing user data. The user is then prompted toenter a personal identification number (‘_PIN”). The ATM 2 thencommunicates across the network with the host 6. The user's accountinformation is pulled and transmitted to the ATM 6. Using this prior artsystem, no customer specific information reaches the ATM until after theuser has entered its PIN.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

In accordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, asystem and method is provided for an automated teller machine (ATM). Inaccordance with an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, asystem and method is provided for an ATM having a display, a logicserver coupled to the display, and a memory coupled to the logic server.Logic server dynamically modifies the functions presented to the user inresponse to the profile. The memory, which is accessible to the logicserver, contains a profile of at least one user.

In use, the ATM detects a user's card. The card may be detected and readby any suitable means including optical recognition or electric ormagnetic field or transmitted signal, etc. After detection, the ATMrequests a profile of the user whose card was detected. The ATM thenreceives the user's profile and stores the user's profile in the ATM.The profile is stored in a memory accessible to the logic server. Thefunctions presented to the user are modified in response to the profile.

The ATM is part of a larger banking system. The system includes a host,an ATM unit, and a network coupled to the host and ATM. The ATM has adisplay, a logic server coupled to the display and a memory. The logicserver controls the content of screens to be displayed on the display,and the memory contains a profile of at least one user. communicate witheach other over the network. The ATM and the host communicate with eachother over the network. The ATM requests user profiles from the host.The host provides the profiles to the ATM over the network. The profilesare then stored at the ATM in a memory.

The host may be available to a personal device having a transmitter anda receiver. The host transmits financial information to the user basedon a request received from the user via the personal device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For the purposes of illustrating the present invention, there is shownin the drawings a form which is presently preferred, it being understoodhowever, that the invention is not limited to the precise form shown bythe drawing in which:

FIG. 1 is a depiction of a prior art system;

FIG. 2 is a depiction of a system according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 3 is an architecture and software overview according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 a is a flow chart showing ATM access to a userprofile/preferences according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 b is a chart showing ATM access by a user in an typicalenvironment according to one embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 shows a typical ATM screen according to the invention accordingto one embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a depiction of a system according to one embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a depiction of the network infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 7 is a depiction of the network infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 8 is a depiction of the network infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 9 is a depiction of the network infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 10 is a depiction of the network infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 11 is a depiction of the network infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the invention;

FIG. 12 is a depiction of the system architecture; and

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a transaction in ADA mode.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 2 depicts the technical framework in which a ATM 10 operates inaccordance with the present invention. The overall system comprises theATM 10 that is connected to a host 12 across a network 14. Host 12stores a user's profile, i.e., fast cash preference, languagepreference, frequently used functions, special queries, last couple ofuses, activity of children or others who have an associated account, gaspump information and the like. Further, a host 12 can authorizewithdrawals up to a specified limit when a user's account data isunavailable or inaccessible. Network 14 can be a proprietary virtualprivate network, a DSL system, an ISDN network, T-1 lines, the Internet,and the like. The host 12 is connected to a delivery processor 16 thathosts middleware applications. Delivery processor 16 performs routingand reformatting functions. Delivery processor 16 acts as a transactionswitch, interfacing the host to the account system files. The deliveryprocessor 16 is in turn connected to the processor 18. Processor 18controls access to profile data. Information stored under the control ofprocessor 18 is transferred to the host 12 to be accessed and utilizedby the ATM 10. Processor 18 contains a transaction system 20 (“TS”) andcard reference file 22 (“CRF”) applications. The TS 20 and CRF 22applications interface with the customer card data stored in database24. ATM 10 may also be a kiosk, point of sale device at a merchant, aself check-out device at a merchant, ticket issuing device at subway orairport, gas pump or other similar kiosk type devices that providesservices via a card similar to an ATM.

An optional personal device 11 may be an e-mail device, Personal DigitalAssistant (“PDA”), cell phone, blackberry, or other device. Optionalpersonal device 11 may communicate with host processor 6 across network4 or across any suitable network including a proprietary networkassociated with optional personal device 11.

ATM 10 is a fully functional ATM in that it can accept deposits,dispense withdrawals, print receipts and statements, and provides aheadphone jack for use by sight impaired users. In one embodiment of thepresent invention, ATM 10 is regulated by fraud and compliance systemsoperating in a client server environment. In a preferred embodiment, theATM 10 utilizes an Ethernet TCP/IP telecommunications network 14 betweenthe ATM 10 and Tandem host 12. ATM 10 can also utilize a wirelesstelecommunications network or any other communication system wheremessages can be transferred in a secure fashion.

FIG. 3 is an architecture and software overview. The major components ofthe system include a user interface 100, ATM interface 150, a hostinterface 130, TCP/IP network 140, and host 120.

The user interface 100 is the portion of the ATM 10 which enables a userto conduct various transactions at an ATM both by displaying informationto the user as well as responding to the user instructions. Screen 102displays the transaction options available to a user, displays theuser's account information such as balances, displays instructions andin general, displays all of the information required by the user tointeract with the ATM 10. As an alternative to the display screen 100,the system of the present invention may interact with the user throughaural communication.

A customer may sends host 120 a text message or other digital messagefrom optional personal device 11 requesting their balance or otherinformation. Host 120 receives the message. The message may identify thecustomer by coming from either a registered address or carrying someinformation that identifies the customer who sent the message. Based onmessage identification of the customer, host 120 returns a message tothe customer telling customer their balance or other information.

The logic server 104 determines the options made available to the user.Logic server 104 utilizes inputs from screen object section 106,multi-language engine 108, event handler 110, and ATM interface 150 todetermine the options to display to the user.

Initially, when a user presents a bank card to the card reader of theATM 10, the card may be swiped, inserted into a reader, or read byoptical, electronic or other suitable means, then a message is sent tothe host 120. The host 120 retrieves the customer's profile data(through elements 18, 16,20, 22, and 24 in FIG. 2) and returns theuser's profile to the logic server 104. The user's profile is stored ina memory that can be accessed by the logic server. The user's profile istransmitted as an IFX message in an XML packet. Logic server 104 reviewsthe customer's unique profile and determines which screen objects 106 todisplay and what language to use. Various language screens are generatedusing language engine 108. Depending upon the profile attributesreceived by logic server 104, i.e., language preference, the PIN entryscreen is displayed the language specified by the profile. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, English is the default language.In one embodiment of the invention, the user profiles received by theATM are stored in a database maintained and updated at the ATM.

In an alternative embodiment, a customer may authenticate or login toATM 10 machine without an using ATM/Debit card. In this embodiment,money can be sent to a user whereby the user can access the money fromATM 10 without a card. This embodiment can be used with any suitable ATMmachine. In another embodiment, an ATM may be accessed for smallbusiness deposits without a card. In this embodiment, logic server 104may serve as an access manager. In this way a lower level employee maymake a deposit without giving them a bank card. In another embodiment,access to ATM 10 may be administrable through a PC. In this embodiment,a user may adjust access and functions available for him/herself or fora person designated to have access. For example, the user may setwithdrawal limits or enable access for deposits only.

In the transmission from host 120, logic server 104 receives otherattributes including account types and rights associated with a givenbank card. For example, a bank card for a business may be allowed accessto deposits only, so that employees using the card cannot makewithdrawals or view balances. The logic server 104 modifies the displayand the options available to the user based on the business rulescontained therein and the customer specific attributes transmitted fromhost 120.

The ability of the ATM 10 of the present invention to receive a user'sprofile is an extremely valuable tool for offering additional servicesto a user. A user's profile can contain more than an account listing,rights, and balances. The profile can contain a credit rating, recentpurchases, i.e., a home, outstanding loans, and the like.

FIG. 3 a is a flow chart showing ATM access to a userprofile/preferences. In an embodiment of the invention, a userspreferences may be accessed immediately after the login screen. Forexample, when the card reader of the ATM 10 detects a users a bank card,a message is sent to the host 120 at step 400. The host 120 retrievesthe customer's profile data (through elements 18, 16,20, 22, and 24 inFIG. 2) and returns the user's profile to the logic server 104 at step410. The user's profile is stored in a memory that can be accessed bythe logic server. The user's profile is transmitted as an IFX message inan XML packet. In an another embodiment, the profile may be stored onthe user's card, for example a smart card. In an another embodiment, theprofile may be pre-stored on the memory of ATM 10, for example ATM 10may be the user's home branch ATM which may store profile's for allusers whose accounts are associated with that branch.

A users profile may include user preferences. For example, a customermay set preferences to show account summaries for all accounts when thecustomer logs in. Another preference may cause an ATM to automaticallydispense $100 or a convenient preset customer amount, or prompt the userto confirm whether he wants that amount to be dispensed, every time thecustomer logs in to a specific ATM. Other personal options may be storedand activated upon login in keeping with the present invention.

Logic server 104 can be programmed with a series of business rules toanalyze the user's profile and offer additional services. For example,if the user has an overdraft balance and a mortgage, an offer for asecond mortgage or refinancing may appear. Similarly, if the user has alarge balance in a savings or checking account brokerage or otherinvestment services may be offered.

Logic server 104 can be programmed with a series of business rules toanalyze the user's profile and provides coupons, messages (“alerts”), orother information to non-customer users based on the identity of thenon-customer's bank. When the user logs on to a bank or other financialinstitution's ATM system (e.g., to obtain dispensed currency), the ATM10 may identify the user's home banking institution. A message may besent to the host 120, which may be a central banking system associatedwith the bank providing the ATM 10, which causes the host 120 to store amessage identifying products or services that are offered by the bankproviding the ATM 10 but not offered by the user's home bankinginstitution. The message may be in the form of a grid or table. Themessage may be displayed to the user at ATM 10 in a manner that clearlyconveys the products and services offered by the bank providing the ATM10. For example, advertisements and other information (e.g., productdescriptions) of those identified products and services may be providedto the user via the display at ATM 10. Other messages or alerts based onthe users profile may be sent in keeping with the present invention.

In one embodiment, if a Bank that offers overnight payments identifiesan ATM, user at an ATM it provides, whose home bank does not offerovernight payments, then the ATM may display a message asking “Does yourbank offer overnight payments?” at a logout screen. An incentive to buya corresponding Bank product or enroll in a corresponding Bank servicemay also be provided, such as a coupon or discount.

For the embodiments described herein, messages may be provided to theuser through any interface provided by the bank or financialinstitution. For example, the interface may be the Internet, phone, ATM,bank branch, or other communication means. In an embodiment, messagesmay be displayed at the terminal touch-screen display or coupons may becoupled with a transaction receipt. A receipt may be delivered at an ATMand/or emailed to a customer. Because many users keep receipts forrecord-keeping purposes, the receipt may comprise a perforation with adetachable coupon.

FIG. 3 b is a In an embodiment of this invention, a bank may advertisebranch products and services by providing coupons or advertisements forthose products and services at an ATM 300 located near a particular bankbranch 310. For example, a customer who uses the ATM 300 may receive acoupon 320 during an ATM transaction and then walks a short distance tothe branch 310 to redeem the coupon 320. Because it is useful tomotivate customers to act while they are in the vicinity of the branch310, coupon 320 may have an expiration date that is relatively soon toensure speedy redemption. ATM 300 may dispense coupon 320 based on thetime of day so that branch-related ads are dispensed only during branchhours.

When a user uses a bank ATM 320 provided by a bank other than its homeATM 300 the transaction usually is accompanied by a corresponding fee.During a subsequent transaction at an ATM 300 or other bank interfaceprovided by the users home bank, a message may be passed to the Bankcustomer indicating the location of an ATM, for example ATM 300 providedby the users home bank that could have been used instead of the otherbank's ATM, for example ATM 330, to avoid the fee. For example, the ATM300 may display the message: “You paid an unnecessary fee at anotherbank's ATM. Your Bank has an ATM one block from the ATM that charged youa fee. Next time, use our nearby ATM and avoid the fee.” The ATM 300 mayalso provide a map and directions indicating the corresponding nearbyATM and possibly the other bank's ATM to show the short distance betweenthe two ATM's. In another embodiment, the Bank may identify every feetype and how it may be avoided. For instance, the bank providing the ATM300 may indicate via a message that upgrading a customer's account wouldavoid a particular fee.

ATM 300 may be located near or inside a merchant 350 may provideproducts or services and/or otherwise facilitates sales and marketingassociated with merchant 350. In an embodiment of the invention, acustomer may browse and purchase nearby merchants products at ATM 300.For example a restaurant patron may order food at ATM 300 and then pickit up at a service counter at restaurant 340. In one embodiment, acustomer may use funds associated with their banking card to purchaseproducts associated with merchant 350. In another example, a travelermay print an airline boarding pass and security document at ATM 300, ifATM 300 is near their gate. Many retailers benefit from the existence ofATMs in or near their store because shoppers are more likely to makepurchases when they have cash in hand.

In some embodiments of the invention, a partner user interface iscombined with an ATM terminal into one multi-purpose terminal (or thetwo interfaces are located very close to one another). In oneembodiment, a gas dispenser at a gas station is combined with an ATMforming an ATM/gas pump 360 so that a gas customer can get cash and paybills while pumping gas. The ATM/gas pump 360 may also enable thecustomer to access a gas card account, pay for gas with an ATM card, andaccess other gas station functions.

Logic server 104 interacts with event handler 110 to process hardwareevents from the physical portions of the ATM 10. The event handler 110passes messages to the logic server 104 that relate to the functioningof the ATM. ATM interface 120, and specifically core services portion122 passes these messages to event handler 110 to provide notificationof hardware events to logic server 104. Core services portion 122constantly monitors the operation of the physical portions ATM 10 (e.g.,the cash dispenser, the deposit receiver, the printer). If a portion ofthe unit malfunctions or the ATM 10 is unable to perform a task, such asdispense cash, a hardware event occurs. This hardware event is providedto the logic server 104, which in conjunction with screen object 106,will remove the “withdrawal” button from the display (for thisparticular hardware event). In one embodiment of the invention, thedisplay screen will also be modified by logic server 104 to notify usersthat the ATM 10 is unable to perform a function, such as dispense cash,prior to the user swiping the bank card.

All of the actions taken by logic server 104 are governed by variousbusiness rules. Business rules are implemented as programming logiccontained within the logic server 104 in the ATM 10. These businessrules, in one function, streamline the user's session by eliminatingtransactions not available to the user. This is a significant departurefrom prior art ATMs where the same transactions options are displayed atthe ATM to every user, and are then denied by the host when it isdetermined that the requested transaction is not available to the user.With ATM 10 of the present invention, the “intelligence” is availablewithin the ATM 10 itself, to logically control the menu options, such asthe buttons and accounts, using business rules logic. As previouslydescribed, the pre-defined business rules interact with the user'sunique profile (transmitted to ATM 10) to control the screen and optionsavailable to the user. For example, if the user's received profileindicates that card being employed by the user is only authorized tomake deposits and not withdrawals, the options for making withdrawals isnever presented to the user.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, business rules areimplemented at a high level control in an Institution Definition File(IDF). In this embodiment of the invention, an IDF is defined for eachproprietary card type and is contained in the user's profile associatedwith the card. In this IDF, there are two attributes or flags available,one to allow PIN Change and one to allow Profile Changes. Theseparameters are set to a “Yes” or “No” as to whether or not to allowthese Pin and Profile change operations.

In general, all customers using the ATM 10 of the present invention havethe ability to perform the same transactions that they can perform withthe prior art ATMs. In a significant departure from the prior art,however, if a customer was unable to perform a transaction in a priorart ATM (e.g., transfers between accounts because the user only had oneaccount) the ATM 10 of the present invention does not even present thatoption to the user. For example, if the customers cannot perform accounttransfers, the ATM 10 never displays the transaction button associatedwith that function to the user. As previously described, themodification of the selection menus is performed locally by the logicserver 104 operating on the predefined business rules and the customerprofile.

FIG. 4 illustrated an example of a preferred ATM screen 40 presented tothe user in accordance with the present invention. At the Main screen 40the following folder tabs are active/available: Access My Accounts 42;Access Bank Services 44; Access Information 46; and Customize My eATM48. The information displayed is modified as various business rules areexecuted against the customer's profile. For example, in one embodimentof the present invention, the “Get Fast Cash” button is not displayedwhen: a proprietary customer does not have a checking account; acustomer is using a proprietary credit card; a customer is using abusiness limited function card (deposit only); customer profile containsa checking account indicator of “deposit only allowed”; or the ATM 10 isunable to dispense cash. As seen above, some of these conditions whichcause the displayed options to be modified are found in the customerprofile and some relate the physical conditions at the specific ATM 10being used by the customer.

In another embodiment of the present invention, there are also businessrules that determine when the “Get Cash” button is or is not displayed.The “Get Cash” button is not displayed when: a customer is using abusiness limited function card (deposit only) or when the ATM is unableto dispense cash. Additionally, the accounts that can be displayed aredetermined by logic server 104 according to predefined rules and thecustomer's profile. For example, checking accounts are not displayedwhen a customer is using a proprietary credit card, a customer is usinga business limited function card (deposit only), or customer profilereturns an account indicator of “deposit only allowed.” Similar rulesalso exist regarding the display of saving accounts and credit accounts.To streamline ATM use, the “Transfer Funds” button is not displayed whenthe user does not have more than one account or if the user is utilizinga business limited card. Additionally, the display of accounts availablefor “transfer from” and “transfer to” change in response to theselections that are made by the customer as well as in response to theattributes (i.e., the customer's actual accounts) contained in theuser's profile. For example, credit accounts are not displayed as atransfer destination when a user elects to transfer funds from a creditaccount and a selected account will not appear in both the “transferfrom” and “transfer to” categories.

Business rules also exist for the “Make Deposit” and “Get Statement”buttons. The business rules are based on account types, cardfunctionality, card rights, availability of banking institution records,ATM functionality, or status, and the like. As discussed above, if logicserver 104 receives a hardware event that a printer is malfunctioning orout of paper, the display items associated with the malfunctioningequipment are not displayed (e.g., Print a Statement).

The ATM 10 of the present invention allows users to customize the ATM 10features and functionality through their profiles. For example, userscan change their PIN, customize the fast cash amount, change thelanguage preference, establish defaults for fund transfers, and thelike. Additionally, users can schedule one time and recurring paymentsthrough the ATM 10.

When a user customizes a feature of the ATM 10, this data is transferredfrom the host interface 130 (FIG. 3) across the TCP/IP network 140 tothe host 120 where it the customization changes are permanently storedin the customer's profile contained in the database 24. The ATM 10communicates with host 120 using Interactive Financial Exchange (“IFX”)and NDC format commands. However, all communication can be conductedusing IFX commands or other command formats. In an another embodiment,optional personal device 11 may communicate with the host via suitablemeans, for example a wireless network.

IFX is an XML-based communication protocol that enables the exchange ofinformation between financial institutions and their customers, theirservice providers, and other financial institutions. IFX was initiallydeveloped for Internet banking, not for ATM applications. IFX commandsare used for PIN change, profile request, and profile preference change.No corresponding commands exist for these functions in the NDC format.Additionally, IFX can be used for withdrawal, balance inquiry,statement, deposit, payment, and transfer commands.

As shown in FIG. 3, to accommodate the IFX command format, the hostinterface 130 has an IFX proxy module 132 and the host 120 has acorresponding device handler 122. In one embodiment of the invention,device handler 122 translates IFX format commands into Base24, anindustry standard program language. The use of IFX allows more complexcommunication between the host 120 and the ATM 10. The NDC commandformat does not support interactive commands, as does IFX. Further, IFXhas been expanded herein to include such features as profile requests,previously unavailable in an ATM.

FIG. 5 is a depiction of a system according to one embodiment of theinvention. The ATM 10 communicates with a host 12 to authenticate users.Once a user is authorized, information stored in the host's files isaccessible to the ATM 10. The host stores a user's profile, which isupdated, as required, by processors 16 and 18. When a user attempts tomake a withdrawal, the host 12 will verify funds in the user's accountwith processor 18. If processor 18 is unavailable host 12 is able toauthorize a withdrawal. The amount of the withdrawal is stored and theusers account is updated when processor 18 is available. In oneembodiment, a user can withdraw a maximum amount without receiving fundavailability from processor 18. In one embodiment of the invention, therelevant files regarding a user are transmitted to the ATM includingcurrent balances. In this manner, the ATM 10 does not have to constantlyseek information from the host 12. After a transaction is completed, theATM will send a message to the host 12 updating the current accountbalances. In one embodiment of the invention, only one ATM can access anaccount at a time to prevent multiple withdrawal of the same funds.

FIGS. 6-11 show the ATM 10 using various network infrastructures. FIG. 6depicts the ATM 10 coupled to a host 12 a or 12 b via an Ethernetinfrastructure. Each of the ATMs 10 is coupled to a primary host, 12 aor 12 b. Each ATM 10 is alternately connected to the other host as aback up if the primary host experiences a failure. Further, the ATMs 10at a single branch or location are not all connected to the same primaryhost. This insures that if a primary host goes down, the ATMs 10connected to the other host still function. If a host does go down, theATMs 10 connected to that host will automatically be routed to theirbackup hosts. FIG. 7 is a depiction of a network utilizing a remote DSLnetwork infrastructure. The operation of the ATMs 10 in this type ofnetwork is essentially the same as those described previously. FIG. 8 isa depiction of a network utilizing a branch Ethernet networkinfrastructure. FIG. 9 is an alternate embodiment of a remote DSLnetwork infrastructure including a security device. As shown in FIG. 10,the ATMs 10 as well as the branch PCs can utilize the same ISDN network.Finally, FIG. 11 shows another embodiment of a DSL infrastructure.

FIG. 12 is a depiction of the system architecture. As shown ATMs 10 arecoupled to hosts. These hosts 120 are coupled for redundancy and back uppurposes. Each host 120 is capable of communicating with other banks viaATM networks such as Pulse, NYCE, Cirrus, and the like. The ATM 10 isable to communicate with the provider's servers, using IFX or anothercommand format, to request user profiles. The Logic server 104 in theATM 10; is then able to customize the display and service offerings topresent the user with a familiar display.

The ATM 10 of the present invention is also capable of operating in amode for disabled persons, particularly those that are sight impaired(“ADA mode”). A Braille keypad is used for navigation. The ATM 10 entersthe ADA mode when a headset is plugged into a headset port of the ATM.The ATM interface 120 (FIG. 3) detects the headset and a hardware eventoccurs. The hardware event causes the logic server 104 to blank thescreen or display a logo or other non-transaction display. Transactionsare not displayed for security purposes. The ATM 10 then uses voicecommands to relay the information that would normally appear on thescreen to the ADA user. The voice commands are either .wav files orsynthesized speech. Synthesized speech is used in the preferredembodiment.

When the ATM is in ADA mode, logic server 104 manages the Voice commandsin a manner similar to the manner in which screen objects are managed.The logic server 104 selects screen objects using the same businessrules as the non-ADA mode. These screen objects are then speechsynthesized and presented to the user. In this manner, the messages theuser hears are dynamically changed, similar to the way the screenobjects are modified in the non-ADA mode.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart of a transaction in ADA mode. At the outset, theATM 10 is awaiting a customer, displaying a welcome screen (Step 50).The ATM 10 is constantly monitoring whether a headset is plugged intothe ATM 10 (Step 51). Once the headset is detected, the screen isblanked and the ADA welcome begins (Step 52). To enter the ADA mode theuser must press enter after the welcome script (Step 53). Once the userpresses enter, the system informs the user of the selections availableon the main screen and instruct the user on how to make a givenselection (Step 54). Using the logic server 104 and a voice synthesizer,the selections an ADA user hears are identical to those presented to asighted user in the non-ADA mode. The user then makes a selection andpresents the bank card for detection (Steps 55-59). Once the card isdetected, the user's profile is transmitted and the user is prompted toenter a PIN (Steps 59-61). The user is now able to complete thetransaction i.e., make a withdrawal (Step 62). Alternatively, the usercan present to card for detection and enter a PIN before plugging in theheadset or immediately after plugging in the headset.

Although the present invention has been described in relation toparticular embodiments thereof, many other variations and modificationsand other uses will become apparent to those skilled in the art. It ispreferred, therefore, that the present invention be limited not by thespecific disclosure herein, but only by the appended claims.

1. An automated Teller Machine (ATM) comprising: a display; a logicserver coupled to the display, the logic server controlling thefunctions presented to the user on the display; a memory coupled to thelogic server,; and a host, the host capable of communicating with thelogic server; wherein the logic server dynamically modifies thefunctions presented to the user in response to the profile.
 2. The ATMas recited in claim 1, wherein the memory has at least a portion of theprofile of at least one user.
 3. The ATM as recited in claim 1, whereinthe host has contents comprising a profile of at least one user andwherein the logic server receives at least a portion of the profile fromthe host.
 4. The ATM as recited in claim 1, further comprising: a card,wherein the card has contents comprising a profile of at least one userand wherein the logic server receives at least a portion of the profilefrom the card.
 5. The ATM as recited in claim 1, further comprising: amachine interface, the machine interface providing an interface tophysical devices in the ATM.
 6. The ATM as recited in claim 5, furthercomprising: a printer; and a cash dispenser, wherein the machineinterface receives a status of the printer and the cash dispenser. 7.The ATM as recited in claim 1, further comprising: a host interfacecoupled to the logic server, wherein the host interface provides aninterface to a host.
 8. The ATM as recited in claim 1, wherein theprofile contains a home bank of the user.
 9. The ATM as recited in claim8, wherein the logic server modifies the display to show a message thatis based on the home bank of the user.
 10. The ATM as recited in claim9, wherein the logic server causes a message to be sent to the usersthat is based on the home bank of the user, wherein the message isselected from one of the following: Internet message, phone message,email, regular mail.
 11. The ATM as recited in claim 9, wherein themessage shows services available from a bank providing the ATM.
 12. TheATM as recited in claim 8, wherein the logic server causes the machineinterface to cause to printer to print a coupon that is based on thehome bank of the user.
 13. The ATM as recited in claim 1, wherein thelogic server causes the machine interface to cause to printer to print acoupon that is based on an associated merchant.
 14. The ATM as recitedin claim 1, wherein the logic server causes the display to offer aservice that is offered by an associated merchant.
 15. The ATM asrecited in claim 1, wherein the logic server causes the display to offera product that is offered by an associated merchant.
 16. The ATM asrecited in claim 8, further wherein if the home bank of the user isdifferent than a bank providing the ATM, then the logic server modifiesthe display to show a message identifying products available from theproviding bank but not available from the home bank.
 17. The ATM asrecited in claim 8, further wherein if the home bank of the user isdifferent than a bank providing the ATM, then the logic server modifiesthe display to show a grid message identifying services available fromthe providing bank but not available from the home bank.
 18. The ATM asrecited in claim 9, wherein the message informs the user of a method ofavoiding a fee associated with the ATM. 19-33. (canceled)
 34. Anautomated Teller Machine (ATM) comprising: a display; a logic servercoupled to the display, the logic server controlling the functionspresented to the user on the display; a memory coupled to the logicserver, the memory having contents comprising a profile of at least oneuser; and wherein the logic server dynamically modifies the functionspresented to the user in response to the profile; and wherein the userlogs into the ATM without using a card. 35-38. (canceled)